RN Programs in Ashland, Kentucky

Get your RN degree in Ashland, Kentucky - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Ashland, Kentucky

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Ashland, Kentucky? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the prerequisites for RN programs to the employment opportunities available in the area. Let’s dive in and explore the rewarding path to becoming an RN in Ashland.

Why Become an RN in Ashland?

Ashland, located along the Ohio River in northeastern Kentucky, is known for its rich history and vibrant community. With landmarks like Central Park and the historic Paramount Arts Center, Ashland offers a charming backdrop for your nursing career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Kentucky is approximately $61,000 per year, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more information about Ashland, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. Typically, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
• Passing scores on entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
• Background checks and immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs in Ashland, Kentucky, offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. You can expect to cover subjects such as:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric and Geriatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings

RN Training Programs in Ashland, Kentucky

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Ashland:

1. Ashland Community and Technical College (ACTC)
   • Address: 1400 College Dr, Ashland, KY 41101
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: ACTC offers an ADN program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes classroom learning and clinical experiences.
   • Link: ACTC Nursing Program
2. Morehead State University – Ashland Campus
   • Address: 1400 College Dr, Ashland, KY 41101
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: Morehead State University provides a BSN program at its Ashland campus. The curriculum includes advanced nursing courses and extensive clinical practice.
   • Link: Morehead State University Nursing Program
3. Ohio University Southern Campus (Ironton, OH)
   • Address: 1804 Liberty Ave, Ironton, OH 45638 (approximately 10 miles from Ashland)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: This program offers a blend of theoretical and practical nursing education, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Link: Ohio University Southern Campus Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Ashland

Ashland has several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are a few notable ones:

1. King’s Daughters Medical Center
   • Address: 2201 Lexington Ave, Ashland, KY 41101
   • Description: As the largest healthcare facility in the region, King’s Daughters Medical Center offers a wide range of services and numerous job opportunities for RNs.
   • Link: King’s Daughters Medical Center Careers
2. Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital
   • Address: 1000 St. Christopher Dr, Ashland, KY 41101
   • Description: This hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services, making it a significant employer for RNs in the area.
   • Link: Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Kentucky, you must:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Kentucky Board of Nursing

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Ashland can vary. On average, you can expect to pay:

• $5,000 to $10,000 for an ADN program
• $20,000 to $40,000 for a BSN program

Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for specific information.

Licensure Reciprocity

Kentucky participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving to Kentucky from another state, you may need to meet specific requirements, such as background checks or continuing education credits. For more details, visit the Kentucky Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Now that you have a roadmap to becoming an RN in Ashland, Kentucky, it’s time to take the next step. Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their programs and start your journey toward a rewarding career in nursing today!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Ashland RN Programs?

RN programs (both campus-based & online RN courses) are medical training programs offered by universities, vocational or technical schools, and community or junior colleges. Some hospitals even offer registered nursing training as an RN diploma.

How do I become an licensed RN?

Each state sets its own RN licensure requirements. In order to earn your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX® examination. The NCLEX® is a comprehensive nursing exam that can only be taken by graduates of nursing programs approved by your state's board of nursing.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No you don't need to complete LPN training before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN Associate Degree program takes 2 years. You can earn your RN Diploma in 3 years. (BSN - 4 years, RN to BSN degrees can be 2-3 years).

Are There Free Nursing Schools in Ashland?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Kentucky. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Kentucky. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.

Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in Kentucky.

RN Job Description

Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation.